codes: form-based codes and design codes

I am a final year student at the Faculty of Architecture and Civil Engineering (University of Malta). Currently I am working on a dissertation focusing on the above mentioned codes. In Malta this subject may be considered an avantgarde one when taking into account the lack of interest/knowledge about what urban design is all about. Locally there is a clear gap between the architects' and planners' profession, both having an ego on their respective profession. As such, I just wanted to open this forum topic to have different views on form-based and design codes in terms of how successful they have been and even your personal opinions on both their advantages and disadvantages. Please feel free to comment since it will be a really appreciated contribution to my dissertation work. My personal e-mail address is omar_caruana@hotmail.com Thanks for your sincere help, Omar Caruana